Bangladesh will hold its first national election since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina on February 12. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin made the announcement on Thursday. He also confirmed that the national referendum on the “July charter” will take place on the same day. The charter proposes reforms for how the state should function after the collapse of Hasina’s government.

Campaign and Voting Timeline

Nasir Uddin said campaigning will begin on January 22 and will end at 7:30 am on February 10. He stated that voting will be conducted for 300 parliamentary seats. The election comes during a tense political period, with many parties preparing for a high-stakes contest.

BNP Emerges as the Frontrunner

Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is widely viewed as the leading contender. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina’s Bangladesh Awami League (BAL) remains banned under an anti-terrorism law. Critics argue that the ban is political revenge for past disputes and conflicts.

Hasina’s Exit and Interim Administration

Bangladesh plunged into chaos in August 2024 after weeks of protests and violent clashes. The unrest escalated so rapidly that Hasina fled the country for her safety. Since then, an unelected interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has been running the country. The military and several protest groups support this arrangement.

Detailed Election Schedule

While announcing the full schedule, Nasir Uddin said the last date for submitting nomination papers is December 29. Officials will examine the papers from December 30 to January 4. Appeals against decisions of the returning officer can be filed on January 11, and these appeals will be settled between January 12 and January 18.

He added that January 20 is the final day for withdrawing candidature. The commission will release the final candidate list and allot election symbols on January 21. Voting will then take place as scheduled on February 12.